Knowledge, attitude, awareness and perception of orthodontic residents, and orthodontists regarding robotics in the field of orthodontics: a cross-sectional study

Background: To assess knowledge, awareness, attitude, and perception (KAAP), of orthodontic residents and orthodontists regarding robotics, along with technology readiness levels (TRL), barriers, and enablers to adoption. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 200 participants (140 residents, 60 orthodontists), from August to September 2025 using purposive sampling technique. A validated questionnaire assessed demographics, KAAP, and TRL across three domains: wire bending, aligner/appliance manufacturing, and microrobotics. Reliability was tested using KR-20 and Cronbach’s alpha. Linear regression explored associations between KAAP scores, demographics, prior exposure, and TRL. Significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: Participants were predominantly female (60%) and hospital-based (80%), with minimal prior exposure (3%). Orthodontic residents (n = 140) had a mean age of 28.0 ± 2.3 years and were 60.0% female, whereas orthodontists (n = 60) had a mean age of 42.8 ± 7.9 years and were 58% female. KAAP scores indicated moderate knowledge, low awareness, and negative attitudes. TRL was highest for aligner manufacturing, moderate for wire bending, and lowest for microrobotics. Reliability was strong (KR-20: 0.744–0.806; α: 0.869). Female gender and prior lectures predicted higher KAAP scores. Key barriers included lack of training (28%), cost, and workflow integration (21%), while enablers were lower cost (26%) and training (21%). Conclusions: Orthodontic professionals showed moderate knowledge and awareness with neutral to negative attitudes towards robotic technologies. TRL was highest for aligner manufacturing and lowest for microrobotics. Addressing educational gaps, reducing costs, and generating evidence may facilitate successful integration into clinical practice.